As wildfires rage across the United States, particularly in California, community-based organisations are stepping up to provide critical support to those affected by hazardous air quality. In response to increasing wildfire smoke, groups like Mendo Clean Air Club and Mask Bloc are distributing masks and air purifiers, addressing a public health crisis exacerbated by climate change and insufficient government action.
Rising Health Risks Amidst Wildfires
Miquette Thompson, a resident of Mendocino County in Northern California, has witnessed her community enveloped in smoke due to the nearby Feliz and Woodside fires, which have consumed over 1,000 acres. The pervasive smoke has rendered outdoor air quality dangerous, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. A recent study from the University of California highlighted a 10% increase in asthma-related hospitalisations on days marked by poor air quality.
Thompson, who has long been an advocate for community health, noted the lack of clear guidance from local health authorities regarding effective masks for smoke protection. “N95 masks are essential for filtering out harmful particles, yet many in our area are unaware of this distinction,” she remarked. In response, Thompson and her team at Mendo Clean Air Club have collaborated with local businesses to distribute protective masks to residents, ensuring that safety measures are accessible to all.
The Emergence of Clean Air Clubs
The Mendo Clean Air Club is part of a global network of over 40 clean air clubs, initiated by Chicago-based Emily Dupree. Originally founded to lend air purifiers to touring musicians during the Covid-19 pandemic, these clubs have evolved to become vital resources for communities grappling with wildfire smoke. Mask Bloc initiatives have also emerged, facilitating the sharing of masks and air purifiers through community-led lending libraries.
During the catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles in January 2025, Mask Bloc LA distributed over 300,000 masks within a fortnight, illustrating the rapid response capabilities of these grassroots organisations. Dupree pointed out the dual challenges of Covid-19 and climate change that have persisted over the past decade, emphasising the importance of maintaining public health measures even amidst shifting narratives around such crises.
Mobilising Resources Quickly
Dupree has observed that the need for air purifiers surged as wildfire smoke impacted air quality in Chicago during July. Initially, their lending library of 15 purifiers had low demand, but as awareness grew, the requests skyrocketed. Dupree noted, “Our ability to mobilise clean air resources quickly is a direct result of our grassroots structure, free from bureaucratic delays.”
This efficiency is crucial, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Shannon Durkin, an organiser with Mask Bloc Delaware who has cystic fibrosis, expressed the anxiety faced by those vulnerable to respiratory issues. “When the pandemic emergency was declared over, many of us felt abandoned,” she said. In July, Durkin and her husband distributed KN95 masks in Wilmington as Canadian wildfire smoke swept across the eastern United States, finding that many residents were unaware of the health risks posed by the smoke.
Building Awareness and Community Resilience
The work of organisations like Clean Air Clubs and Mask Blocs has become increasingly vital as the current administration continues to downplay the severity of both Covid-19 and the ongoing threats posed by climate change. Thompson emphasises the importance of education in her rural community, stating, “We can’t afford to get sick or suffer from long Covid; many of us rely on our physical health for our livelihoods.”
As awareness of Clean Air Clubs grows, Dupree has created resources to help others establish similar initiatives. She believes that focusing on local issues not only addresses immediate concerns but can also lead to broader solutions. “This shows that tackling one problem often uncovers pathways to address others,” she noted, highlighting the potential for collective action in the face of multifaceted crises.
Why it Matters
The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, coupled with the persistent threat of respiratory illnesses, underscore the urgent need for community-led initiatives that prioritise public health. As these grassroots organisations adapt to emerging challenges, they not only provide immediate relief but also foster resilience and awareness, empowering communities to navigate the complexities of a changing climate and public health landscape. In a world where governmental responses can often lag, local action stands as a beacon of hope and a model for future efforts in safeguarding community health.
